Educational Videos

How Use a Contra-Flow Bike Lane

Like the name implies,contra-flow bike lanes are designed to allow cyclists to bike against traffic in certain areas. They aim to provide connectivity for traveling by bicycle in complex street grids and can reduce dangerous wrong-way or sidewalk riding.

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How to Ride on a Trail

Whether you want to explore the Three Rivers Heritage Trail or travel longer distances via the GAP Trail, Pittsburgh has a variety of trails that provide wonderful bicycling experiences. Watch our 60-second video for guidelines to riding on these beautiful trails.

How to Use a 2-Stage Turn Box

Pittsburgh’s 2-stage bike turn box at East Liberty Blvd and Highland Ave offers a safer way to turn left. East Liberty Blvd has a cycle track allowing cyclists to ride along in a single lane to the right of drivers. Watch our 60-second video to see how it’s done!

How to Ride at Night

As cyclists, we strive to make our presence known on the road. This concept is especially important when riding in low light conditions. Whether it’s early in the day or late at night, staying visible on the road should be your number one concern. We’ve put together some tips for staying visible in low light conditions. Enjoy!

How to Look, Signal, and Switch Lanes

Navigating the city safely requires riding in the correct lanes and communicating effectively. Cycling on the road can feel daunting, especially if you’re not used to traveling through the city via bike. Don’t worry, we’ve put together a few tips to make your next city commute safer and more comfortable.

How to Start and Stop Confidently on two wheels

It’s important to feel comfortable riding with traffic, especially during those busy times of the day. Starting and stopping is a great place to begin learning the basics of city cycling. Boost your confidence biking on the street with some tips on how to start and stop safely.

How to do an ABC Quick Check

Have you checked your bike since your last ride? When is the last time you had it in the shop? Regular bicycle maintenance can prevent complications on the road or trail. Here is the “ABC Quick Check,” which you should do every time before you ride.

How to use bus-bike lanes

In Pittsburgh, a few bus lanes now allow cyclists in them, creating bus-bike-only lanes. These lanes are designed to give cyclists more options when traveling through the city. Here are the main things you need to know about sharing the lane with buses.

How to use a runnel

With more than 800 staircases, Pittsburgh has more city steps than any other city in the country. Some steps even have a channel for bike tires, called a runnel. Next time you see one, here’s what to do.

How to Properly Fit your Bicycle Helmet

How to Cycle Uphill

Let’s be honest, hills can be a bit of a challenge, but, when you’re thoroughly prepared for the climb, it can be rather fulfilling. Here are 6 tips to properly prepare you for how to efficiently climb a hill.

How to fix a flat tire

How and when to ride on the trails

Whether you want to explore the Three Rivers Heritage Trail or travel longer distances via the GAP Trail, Pittsburgh has a variety of trails that provide wonderful bicycling experiences. Watch our 60-second video for guidelines to riding on these beautiful trails.

How to use hand signals

Predictability is key to your safety. Be deliberate and clear about your intentions. Have a commanding presence and use both hand signals and eye contact to communicate. Watch our 60 second video to learn the basics of using hand signals.

How to Buy a Bike

When purchasing a bicycle it’s important to think about the style of bicycle that best fits your riding needs. Ask yourself, what terrain will you primarily ride on? What type of position would you be most comfortable riding in?

How to use a contra-flow bike lane

Pittsburgh’s first contra-flow bike lane begins at Bellefield Ave, where Forbes Ave goes from a one-way street to a two-way street. What’s changed is that all westbound traffic still needs to turn onto Bellefield Ave – except bikes. Take a look at our 60-second video below to learn how to use this new bike lane.

How to use a 2-stage turn box

If a cyclist wants to turn left, it can be a challenge to merge into the left-lane to make that left turn. A green bike box is a designated space in front of cars where a cyclist can wait during a red light. Bicyclists can also make a left turn from the driving lane.

How to Carry More Stuff on a Bike

Everyone needs to carry things on their bike, whether it’s something small like a multi-tool or a spare tube, up to larger hauls like groceries. We are going to show you a few ways that work for various budgets, how much you need to carry, and your personal preference of what feels most comfortable to you.

How to do an ABC Quick Check

Have you checked your bike since your last ride? When was the last time you had it in the shop? Regular bicycle maintenance can prevent accidents. Here is the “ABC Quick Check,” which you should do every time before you ride.

How to plan your bike route

Watch our 60 second video to learn the basics of planning your next bike route. The BikePGH Bike Map shows you everything you need to know to find your way around Pittsburgh on bike. Biking 101 is another great resource for tips, suggestions, and laws to stay safe while biking.

How to fit your bicycle HELMET

A helmet needs to fit properly in order to provide the highest level of head protection. Don’t rush fitting a helmet. Make sure the fit is right for your head. Watch our video below for quick tips and use our step-by-step guide for detailed fitting methods.